Past University Theatre and Dance

Explore the University Theatre and Dance performances presented in the 2025 - 2026 Season!

Head Over Heels

Songs by The Go-Go's

Conceived and Original Book by Jeff Whitty

Based on "The Arcadia" by Sir Philip Sidney

Adapted by James Magruder

Mainstage Play
May 29 - June 7, 2026
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A pink heart pierced by four arrows, atop an upside down crown. White text: Head Over Heels: a new musical

We Got the Beat in this exciting, bold and fun-forward musical! Vacation to the land of Arcadia, where a Greek Oracle warns the kingdom they will lose their Beat unless they heed the prophecy and embrace love in all its forms. What will happen?...Our Lips are Sealed. Everybody, get on your feet as you dance and sing-along to the music of the Go-Go's and fall...Head Over Heels! 

“Head Over Heels is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC. (www.broadwaylicensing.com)”

New Playwrights’ Festival ‘26

Student Spotlight Series
May 31 - June 3, 2026
Sunday - Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Red background with black bold text saying "New Playwrights' Festival '26" with the names of the plays written in different white fonts below.

Experience the creativity and talent of SCU’s emerging student playwrights at the New Playwrights’ Festival! Join us for an exciting evening of original one-act plays written, directed, and performed by SCU students, featuring new works by Liv Cichanski, Sahana Kumar, Lindsey Gebhardt, Jenna Martinez, Priya Worden, Audrey Bowes, and Hesed Coctecon-Cruz.

Exit, Pursued by a Bear

By Lauren Gunderson

Mainstage Play
May 8 - 17, 2026
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Abright yellow background with an image of a snarling brown bear on the right. Text : Exit, Pursued by a Bear: a revenge comedy by Lauren Gunderson

Nan decides to take things into her own hands when dealing with her abusive husband, Kyle, and the evening unfolds to be emotional and absurd.  With the help of her cheerleader bestie Simon and new found friend Sweetheart, Nan & Kyle take a not always pleasant walk down memory lane. Using duct tape, honey and raw meat Nan finds the freedom she is seeking in this smart, dark revenge comedy.

Produced by special arrangement by Playscripts, Inc. (www.playscripts.com)

A Body in the O

In Partnership with SCU Presents
April 18, 2026
Saturday, 7:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

A poster with a man climbing a structure covered in graffiti with the words A Body in the 0 Tim Miller

Jumping off from a day in 1984 when Miller climbed up inside of the "0" of the Hollywood sign and imagined the performance space of his dreams, A Body in the 0 traces decades of artistic and political gay life in the U.S.

  • TIM MILLER is a foundational figure in contemporary queer performance. As one of the original NEA 4, he reshaped national conversations about censorship, public funding, and queer visibility in the arts. Learn more at https://timmillerperformer.com/.

  • SCU PRESENTS

    OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL LEARNING

    CENTER FOR ARTS AND HUMANITIES

    DIVISION OF INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE

    DEPARTMENT OF GENDER AND SEXUALITY STUDIES

    DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE

  • IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE ADA/504, PLEASE DIRECT ACCOMMODATION REQUESTS TO BGILLESPIE@SCU.EDU

Spring Dance Festival ’26

Student Spotlight Series
April 11 - 12, 2026
Saturday, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Student Choreographer Ximena De La Parra-Tostado dancing in a dance studio in black clothes.

Celebrate the start of spring with a spell-binding performance of original student choreography from senior Ximena De La Parra-Tostado.

Electricidad

By Luis Alfaro

Mainstage Play
February 27 - March 8, 2026
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Directed by Hugo Carbajal

A silhouette of a woman with lightning bolts on her neck and shoulder against a red background. Text: ELECTRICIDAD by Luis Alfaro,

In the years following the murder of her father by her mother, Electricidad is committed to vengeance. To get it, she’ll need her brother, Orestes, to return from Las Vegas and help her finish the job. Transporting Sophocles’ Electra to the Los Angeles barrios, Luis Alfaro investigates violence, loss, and redemption through the lens of this age-old tragedy.

ELECTRICIDAD is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection. (www.dramatists.com)

  • This play contains strong language, depictions of violence, simulated use of cigarettes and marijuana, and graphic imagery of a burnt body. These elements are integral to the content of the story. Some viewers may find the content disturbing. Audience discretion advised.

  • View the full digital program here.

  • Click here to view our Flickr Album.

    Photo Credit: Christian Pizzirani

Winter One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
February 14 - 15, 2026
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

An unforgettable afternoon of one acts.

Spend an afternoon immersed in captivating and creative one-act plays, directed by our exceptional students! Through imaginative storytelling, engaging characters and fascinating places, these theatrical gems will take you on a journey full of new possibilities and diverse perspectives.

Plays:

Christian Barnard - Impromptu, Tad Mosel

Audrey Thomson - Take Five,  Westley Pederson

Content Advisory: Please be advised that these plays may deal with mature themes and may contain mature language and imagery. Recommended for ages 12+.

Images 2026

Mainstage Dance
February 5 - 8, 2026
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Group of five dancers wearing black outfits and pink ties, against a green background. Text: IMAGES 2026

Emotions, rhythms, and spectacle intertwine in Images 2026. This awe-inspiring large-scale, dance showcase features a thrilling collection of student and faculty-choreographed pieces in a wide range of genres and styles.

Safety Warning: This performance includes the use of strobe lights and theatrical haze/fog. These effects may be triggering for individuals with photosensitive epilepsy or other health conditions. Discretion is advised.

Choreographers’ Gallery

Mainstage Dance
December 4 - 5, 2025
Thursday, 8:00 p.m., Friday 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Dramatic stage scene in red with five dancers with one in the foreground with arm extended and the others in various poses. Text: Choreographers Gallery

Talent abounds in the annual Choreographers’ Gallery, where artistic expression and unlimited creativity enthrall and inspire. With a range of personal artistry by our student dance community, enjoy an evening of contemporary work that will leave you enraptured by the power of movement.

  • View the full Digital Program for Choreographers’ Gallery 2025 here.

  • Coming Soon.

The Odd Couple &
The Odd Couple, Female Version

By Neil Simon

Mainstage Play
November 7 - 16, 2025
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sundays, 2:00 p.m. & Saturday 11/15, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A living room with mismatched furniture. Text: The Odd Couple by Neil Simon.

Opposites don't just attract...they collide in Neil Simon's The Odd Couple, presented in both the male and female versions for double the laughs and double the fun. When a neat freak and a total mess have to share space, watch how these two mismatched roommates try to coexist without losing their minds in the timeless classic. Two casts, two versions, and all the hilarious chaos you'd expect when roommates are a little Odd.

“The Odd Couple” and “The Odd Couple, Female Version” are presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com.

Fall One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
October 25 - 26, 2025
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Four performers standing on stage wearing colorful hoodies in purple, red, blue, and yellow. Text: Fall One Act Festival

An unforgettable afternoon of one acts.

Spend an afternoon immersed in captivating and creative one-act plays, directed by our exceptional students! Through imaginative storytelling, engaging characters and fascinating places, these theatrical gems will take you on a journey full of new possibilities and diverse perspectives.

Plays:

Emma Fox - He Said and She Said, Alice Gerstenberg

Karys Imai - Trifles, Susan Glaspell

Content Advisory: Please be advised that these plays may deal with mature themes and may contain mature language and imagery. Recommended for ages 12+.

  • View the full digital program here.

Explore the University Theatre and Dance performances presented in the 2024 - 2025 Season!

The Mad Ones

Mainstage Play
May 30 - June 8, 2025
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

A promotional poster for the musical 'The Mad Ones' featuring a view of a road through a car's windshield at sunset with pink and blue sky. Text indicates the show runs from May 30 to June 8 and includes a tagline to breathe.

Don’t forget to breathe.

18-year-old Samantha Brown sits in her car with keys in her hand, unable to turn the key. Torn between the expectations of her mother and the hopes of her impetuous best friend, Sam relives her senior year and the unexpected loss that led her here. With a score that inspired a generation of musical theatre lovers, The Mad Ones is a cult-hit musical filled with humor and heart which asks the question: is it better to follow the path laid out or throw out the map and chart a new route?

A circular logo with a black background featuring two stylized theatrical masks, one red and one yellow, overlapping. The masks have expressive facial features. The text surrounds the masks and reads 'Student Access to the Arts' on the left and 'FREE' on the right.

New Playwrights’ Festival

Student Spotlight Series
June 1 - 4, 2025
Sunday - Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Poster for New Playwrights' Festival featuring a collage of eyes of different people, some in black-and-white and some in color.

Brand new plays take the stage.

Be the first to experience the creativity and talent of emerging playwrights at the New Playwrights’ Festival! Join us for an electrifying evening of never-before-seen one-act plays, written, performed, and directed by the brilliant minds of SCU students.

  • View the full Digital Program here.

A circular logo with a black background featuring two stylized faces, one in red and one in yellow, smiling. Text around the edge reads "Student Access to the Arts" and "FREE".

overhead, a skylark called

Mainstage Play
May 9 - 18, 2025
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Multiple Locations Across Campus

Colorful abstract background with a bird, promotional poster for the Department of Theatre and Dance announcing a play titled "Overhead, a Skylark Called" running from May 9 to 18, featuring the quote "what do you call home?"

A group of travelers separated, now stuck in three locations…

One is walking in circles…Two waiting for a train…Three for a plague to end…

A message: stop the circles, find a river, follow the skylark…

A new devised piece of dance-theater collaboratively created with Sinatra Visiting Artists-in-Residence Detour poses the question “what do you call home?” Choose from three experiences at locations across campus (Vari Hall, de Saisset Museum, Edward M. Dowd Art and Art History Building). This not-to-be-missed immersive and unique theatrical event culminates at the Louis B. Mayer Theatre.

Want to know more about devised theatre? Check out this guide.

  • View the full Digital Program here.

  • Brian Thorstenson is the first faculty appointment to the Frank Sinatra Chair in the Performing Arts since the program was revitalized in 2016. A professor at Santa Clara University for the last 21 years, Brian is a San Francisco-based writer, educator, and theater-maker. Through his appointment as the 2023-2025 Sinatra Chair in the Performing Arts, Brian has engaged students in new and exciting ways, incorporating their voices and lived experiences into the creative process of developing and implementing an original devised theatre piece.

  • The Plague Archives includes explicit images of disease, suffering, and death, and deals directly with human behaviors in events of mass illness, including histories of scapegoating, racism, sexism, anti Semitism, genocide, disease and science denialism, and class, financial, and scientific exploitation.

Graphic logo with two theatrical masks, one in red and one in yellow, set against a black circular background. Circular text reads, 'Student Access to the Arts,' and 'FREEE'.

Spring Dance Festival ‘25

Student Spotlight Series
April 12 - 13, 2025
Saturday, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Illustration of a raised fist with broken handcuffs, surrounded by words 'Sculpture Access to the Arts FREE' in a circular arrangement.
Three dancers performing at the Spring Dance Festival, on a dark stage with dramatic lighting.

Celebrate the start of spring with a spell-binding performance of original student choreography from seniors Andréa Georgenes and Kristin Hill.

  • View the Digital Program here.

She Kills Monsters

Mainstage Play
February 28 - March 9, 2025
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Book cover illustration depicting a female warrior in front of a large, red and orange dragon with outstretched wings, set in a fantasy landscape with mountains and stormy sky. Text: She Kills Monsters by Qui Nguyen, Feb 28 to Mar 9.

Roll for initiative.

Agnes would never be caught dead playing Dungeons and Dragons. But after the sudden loss of her parents and younger sister Tilly, she finds herself grieving in an unexpected way. While Agnes and Tilly were distant in life, Agnes finds a surprising new connection to her sister after discovering Tilly's notebook containing a game scenario. Playing the game Tilly designed, Agnes embarks on a journey filled with dungeon masters, fierce LGBTQI+ warriors, homicidal fairies, raunchy ogres, and bloodthirsty cheerleaders as fantasy and reality start to merge in this hilarious and heart-wrenching show from Emmy Award-winner Qui Nguyen.

She Kills Monsters contains adult language, mild staged violence, and some mature themes. Recommended for ages 13+.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • “Fun set and prop design, great cast, entertaining yet emotional play, seamless ticket and theater experience.”

    “Great production overall - choice of play, actors, sets, costumes, visuals - all came together to immerse the audience in the story.”

    “Show was well designed, well directed, and overall very enjoyable!”

A circular logo with two stylized masks, one red and one yellow, representing comedy and tragedy, with the words "Stand Up Access to the Arts FREE" encircling them.

Winter One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
February 15 - 16, 2025
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Three people in a theatrical scene, one woman sitting with her feet resting on a table, two men standing and looking at her, with text promoting the Winter One Act Festival on February 15-16.

An unforgettable afternoon of one acts.

Immerse yourself in this captivating program one-act plays, featuring Chekhov’s fast-paced farce, The Proposal and a powerful play inspired by the poems of SCU students, Little Godless Monsters.

Directed by our exceptional students, these theatrical gems will take you on a journey of new possibilities and perspectives through imaginative storytelling, engaging characters and fascinating places.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • Coming Soon.

A circular logo with two theatrical masks, one red and one yellow, overlapping each other. Curved text around the mask reads 'Student Access to the Arts' and 'FRee'.

Images 2025

Mainstage Dance
February 6 - 9, 2025
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Orange circular badge with a raised fist in dark red and black, with the words "Support Access to the Arts FREE" encircling the fist.
Two dancers performing on stage, one male and one female, with a dark background and purple lighting, mid-dance pose.

Emotions, rhythms, and spectacle intertwine in Images 2025. This awe-inspiring showcase features a thrilling collection of student and faculty-choreographed pieces in a wide range of genres and styles.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • Coming Soon

Choreographers’ Gallery

Mainstage Dance
December 5 - 6, 2024
Thursday, 8:00 p.m.
Friday 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A circular logo with an orange background featuring two fists rising, with one hand gripping a paintbrush, symbolizing art activism. The text around the circle reads "Suddent �Access to the Arts" and "FREE."
Choreographers' Gallery text overlay on a stage photo featuring a dancer jumping with arms spread wide and several other dancers standing in a line.

Talent abounds in the annual Choreographers’ Gallery, where artistic expression and unlimited creativity enthrall and inspire. With a variety of performances evoking a range of human emotions, this evening of dance will leave you enraptured by the power of movement.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • “I LOVED watching Dangerous. The music choices and the differences in the choreography of each piece were fabulous. Thank you!!”

    “Interesting dances and choreography.”

  • View photos from the production here.

Fall One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
November 16 - 17, 2024
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Three performers bowing on stage during a festival, with a dark background and chairs behind them. The festival title, 'Fall One Act Festival,' is displayed with the dates 'Nov 16-17'.

An unforgettable afternoon of one acts.

Spend an afternoon immersed in a captivating compilation of diverse one-act plays. Directed by our exceptional students, these theatrical gems will take you on a journey of new possibilities and perspectives through imaginative storytelling, engaging characters and fascinating places.

  • View the Digital Program here.

A circular logo with two stylized comedy and tragedy masks, one yellow smiling and one red frowning, surrounded by the text "Sudden Arts Access to the Arts FREE."

Twelfth Night

Mainstage Play
November 1 - 10, 2024
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Silhouette of a woman and a man close to each other with foreheads touching, against a background with a crescent moon and a starry sky, referencing Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night'.

If music be the food of love, play on.

“What country, friends, is this?” asks the cross-dressing Viola as she enters Illyria, a 1970s nightclub where colorful patrons shatter social norms nightly. Bursting onto the scene as her male alter-ego “Cesario”, Viola falls head over heels for Orsino, the mercurial club owner who lives by the mantra “If music be the food of love, play on!” Unfortunately, Orsino only has eyes for the unimpressed Olivia. Meanwhile, Olivia finds herself drawn to the mysterious Cesario, while her servant Malvolio is tricked into thinking Olivia is madly in love with him. Unrequited passions, the search for identity, and power of disruption collide in Shakespeare’s most progressive comedy.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • View our Flickr Album for Twelfth Night here.

A circular logo featuring stylized faces in red and yellow, with the words "Student Access to the Arts" and "FREE" surrounding the faces.

Explore the University Theatre and Dance performances presented in the 2023 - 2024 Season!

New Playwrights’ Festival

Student Spotlight Series
June 3 - 6, 2024
Monday - Thursday, 7:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

A graphic of a red cone with a white section and a black background. It has text reading 'FREE' on one side and 'Student Access to the Arts' on the curved top edge.
A poster with a list of names in large blue and purple text, including Ariana, Derrdre, Elodie, Ezra, Katie, Kennedy, Lucas, Maddie, Maya, Nikita, Sophie, and the text "New Playwrights '24" at the bottom, with a pink flower and falling petals on the right side.

Be the first to experience the creativity and talent of emerging playwrights at the New Playwrights' Festival! Join us for an electrifying evening of never-before-seen one-act plays, written, performed, and directed by the brilliant minds of SCU students.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • JUNE 3 AT 7:00 P.M.

    PEDAL PALS

    Written and Directed by Kennedy Dawson

    WINDOWS

    Written and Directed by Nikhita Panjnani

    TO BE DECIDED

    Written and Directed by Sophie Copple

    EVERYTHING MUST GO

    Written by Maddie Coquilla | Directed by Lucia Heese

    JUNE 4 AT 7:00 P.M.

    CASINO INFERNO

    Written and Directed by Katy Wolff

    PYGMALION’S MONSTER

    Written and Directed by

    Elodie Conrad de Torres

    JUNE 5 at 7:00 P.M.

    THE RUBBER DUCKIE

    Written and Directed by Ariana Chavez-Magana

    THE STIFF DYLAN’S

    Written and Directed by Deirdre Farrell

    AUGUST TURNER VS THE WORLD

    Written by Ezra Endamne-Wamba | Directed by Lazlo Ilya Pearlman

    NINE DAYS IN DECEMBER

    Written and Directed by Maya Jaffe

    JUNE 6 at 7:00 P.M.

    NONHUMAN PRIMATES

    Written and Directed by Lucas Simone

42nd Street

Mainstage Musical
May 24 - June 2, 2024
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Gauge with a red needle pointing to 'Student Access to the Arts' and the word 'FREE' on the gauge.
Poster promoting 42nd Street celebration with showbiz theme, featuring red curtains, a city skyline at night, and event details from May 24 to June 2.

Get ready to tap your way into a world of glitz and glamor with the sensational musical 42nd Street. Join us for a show stopping performance that will transport you to the dazzling realm of Broadway's golden era. With iconic songs, dazzling choreography, and a story of dreams coming true, 42nd Street will have you dancing in your seat and leave you craving an encore.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • "Everything about the production was excellent! I loved the dancing and singing and how the whole production flowed so smoothly! Cant believe these were all students!"

    “Great casting, large & energetic spectacle dances, and great acting with hilarious moments. Seeing my friends perform is always so fun!”

    “We have been going to Santa Clara performances for many many years. This was one of the best we have ever seen. The tap dancing in particular was so impressive!”

    “I've seen the play MANY times, but thoroughly enjoyed this performance! The cast worked so hard.”

    “Excellent choreography/tap dancing, delightful pit orchestra and professional sounding voices!”

  • View our Flickr Album for 42nd Street here.

  • 42ND STREET is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. www.concordtheatricals.com

    Music by Lyrics by
    HARRY WARREN AL DUBIN

    Book by
    MICHAEL STEWART & MARK BRAMBLE

    Based on the Novel by BRADFORD ROPES and the motion picture 42nd Street owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed by Warner Bros.

    THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET,IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:https://concordtheatricals.com/resources/protecting-artists

Off the Page: The 20th Anniversary of the New Playwrights’ Festival

Mainstage Play
April 26 - May 5, 2024
Friday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Graphic of a circular gauge with a red pointer, labeled 'FREE' on the left side and 'Student Access to the Arts' on the right side.
Collage celebrating the 20th anniversary of the New Playwrights' Festival, featuring group photos of participants including students and performers on stage with musical instruments.

Six electrifying new plays, 20 years in the making. SCU Alumni and former festival participants reunite for the 20th Anniversary of the New Playwrights' Festival! Featuring works by Emma Hokoda, Marissa Martinez, Anthony Sampson, Nic Sommerfeld, and Alexis Standridge.

  • View the Digital Programs for New Playwrights’ Festival:

    Weekend 1

    Weekend 2

Spring Dance Festival ‘24

Student Spotlight Series
April 13 - 14, 2024
Saturday, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Logo featuring a red high heel shoe and a curved black banner with white text reading 'FREE'. Surrounding the shoe, black text states 'Sudden Accent to the Arts'.
Three women in black dancewear striking modern dance poses against a white background with the text 'Spring Dance Festival' in the top left corner.

Experience a mesmerizing performance of original student choreography, celebrating the immense talent and passion for dance of seniors Mia Kanter, Kimber Wood and Alex Zhu.

  • View the Digital Program for Spring Dance Festival here.

  • “The performance was professionally arranged, dancers worked hard.”

    “I liked how each choreographer's dances went one after the other.”

By the Way, Meet Vera Stark

Mainstage Play
March 1 - 10, 2024
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A circular black badge with a red cone in the center, featuring a spotlight effect. The badge has white text that reads 'FREES' on the left side and 'Student Access to the Arts' on the right side.
The image is a black, white, and gray poster with red text promoting the play 'By the Way, Meet Vera Stark' by Lynn Nottage. It features a stylized illustration of a person in a tuxedo holding a silver tray with the date 'March 1-10' written on it. The background has a geometric pattern. The red text also includes the quote 'Sly satire exploring the enduring spirit of a true star'.

Step into the world of Vera Stark, a trailblazing African-American actress, as she navigates fame, identity, and the complexities of Hollywood's golden age. Get ready for a thought-provoking and unforgettable theatrical journey that explores the power of representation and the enduring spirit of a true star.

  • You can view the Digital Program here.

  • “The theater is wonderfully comfortable. The performance was professional; the student actors were impressive.”

    “The acting is incredible! The stage design - impressive! The talk backs with the directors and actors and others - amazing.”

  • View photos from the show on our Flickr here.

Winter One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
February 17 - 18, 2024
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

A gauge with a black background, displaying the message 'Free' on the left and 'Student Access to the Arts' on the right, with a needle pointing to the top.

Two men in suits on a stage, one seated at a table holding a mug and the other standing beside him, with a dark background.

Immerse yourself in an enchanting afternoon of theatrical brilliance as budding student artists present a captivating compilation of diverse one-act plays. Prepare to be spellbound by their exceptional skills and imaginative storytelling, transporting you to captivating worlds.

  • You can view the Digital Program here.

  • “Performances were wonderful, play was thought provoking.”

  • You can view photos from this production on our Flickr account here.

Images 2024

Mainstage Dance
February 8 - 11, 2024
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A circular logo with text that reads 'Free Student Access to the Arts' and a silhouette of a dancer in center, with two small stars in the circle.
Three dancers performing on stage, dressed in peach-colored costumes, mid-air in a dance pose with arms outstretched, against a dark background with blue and orange lighting, promoting an event called IMAGES 2024 from February 8-11, focusing on emotions, rhythm, and visual spectacle.

Prepare to be captivated by the artistry of dance with Images 2024. This extraordinary compilation showcases a vibrant collection of choreographed pieces, crafted by both talented faculty and exceptional students, representing a wide range of genres and styles. Each performance is a unique exploration of storytelling through choreography, offering a kaleidoscope of emotions, rhythms, and visual spectacle.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • View the Production Photos on our Flickr site here.

Choreographers’ Gallery

Mainstage Dance
November 30 - December 1, 2023
Thursday, 8:00 p.m.
Friday 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A circular logo with a dancer silhouette in the center, surrounded by the text 'Student Access to the Arts', with a red 'FREE' stamp across the image.
Three dancers performing on stage with purple curtains, one lifted by the other two, under Illuminated stage lights.

Step into a world of profound artistic expression and boundless inspiration as the annual Choreographers’ Gallery takes center stage. Each performance is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, evoking a range of emotions that will leave you moved and uplifted.

The Game’s Afoot

Ken Ludwig’s

Mainstage Play
November 3 - 12, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Logo with theatrical masks and text ‘Free Student Access to the Arts’
Promotional poster for Ken Ludwig's 'The Game's Afoot' or 'Holmes for the Holidays,' featuring a silhouette of Sherlock Holmes with a pipe, surrounded by gift boxes, with event dates November 3-12.

William Gillette summons his fellow cast-members to his enchanting Connecticut castle, promising a weekend filled with merriment and joy. However, when a chilling murder shatters the idyllic atmosphere of this secluded abode, the festivities take a treacherous turn. Prepare to be enthralled by an unrelenting rollercoaster of danger and side-splittingt laughter in this dazzling murder mystery, set against the backdrop of the Christmas holidays.

  • View Ken Ludwig’s The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays digital program

  • “The set design, costuming, and lighting - bravo, bravo! Professional-level set, costumes, and lighting - kudos to the theater tech team! My jaw dropped seeing the set for the first time as the curtain rose. Even the lighting on the curtains was wonderfully designed. “

    “Actor expressiveness and energy, unique lighting and interwoven story, being close to the front was very powerful”

    “Comfortable theater, good seats, convenient location, nice choice of play, high caliber of actors”

  • View the Flickr album here

  • “Ken Ludwig's The Game's Afoot” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

    THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: https://www.concordtheatricals.com/resources/protecting-artists

Fall One Act Festival

Student Spotlight Series
October 21 - 22, 2023
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

A circular logo with two comedy and tragedy masks in the center, surrounded by the text 'STUDENT ACCESS TO THE ARTS' in black. A red stamp says 'FREE' across the masks.
Four people standing on a dark stage, each wearing brightly colored hooded sweatshirts in purple, red, blue, and yellow, with black pants and sneakers.

Witness the immense talent and creativity of student artists at the Fall One Act Festival. Join us for a captivating afternoon of theatrical brilliance as students take the stage to present a compilation of diverse and captivating one-act plays. Come and see Binders by Rachael Carnes, directed by Patrick Gammon and Chocolate Chip Fridays by David Lee White, directed by Ariana Chavez-Magaña.

  • View the Digital Program here.

  • Access the Flickr Album here.

  • “The one acts were enjoyable to watch, very well acted and directed!”

    ”Incredibly talented students”

Explore the University Theatre and Dance performances presented in the 2022 - 2023 Season!

New Playwrights’ Festival

Student Spotlight
June 4 - 7, 2023
Sunday - Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

New Playwrights' Festival

Be the first to experience fantastic new theatrical works written and performed by SCU students. This annual festival features original plays created by the bright theatre professionals of the future!

  • “Lots of cool new work! Good timing in terms of how many shows per day.”

    “Great spirit and talent displayed by all the writers and performers.”

  • New Playwrights' Festival Program

Into the Woods

Mainstage Musical
May 26 - June 4, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Dare to venture into the woods with this unexpected twist on the beloved fairy tales you thought you knew. Through achingly beautiful melodies and clever wordplay, this Tony Award-winning musical from Stephen Sondheim intertwines classic characters in surprising stories as they pursue their deepest desires. Shortly after their wishes are granted, the consequences of their actions return to haunt them, and fairytale heroes must work together to save their world from destruction.

  • Into the Woods Program

  • “This was one of the best sung productions of Into the Woods ever. The commitment to musicality and clear diction was outstanding.”

    “Perfect seats, beautiful setup, amazing emotion and energy, loved the theme and outfits!!! Best experience, so much better than expected!”

    “The production, singing, and performances were amazing! This paired with the great costumes, music, and professionalism brought to stage ensured a fantastic experience.”

    “Talented singers and actors, creative scenery, overall wonderful rendition to do Sondheim proud!”

    “Everything of this performance was PERFECT! The acting. The extended stage, the costume. All of it! My friend and I were extremely engaged and loved the interactive pieces. “

    “The extended stage wrapping around and almost into the audience- my daughters really enjoyed feeling like they were physically in the story, in a way. The rotunda feeling reminded me of Shakespearean monologues and really impacted the overall experience in an effective way. We also like how there wasn't a huge ensemble. This helped us to absorb each performer's presence and take in their words/singing without a lot of the distraction. The small cast size also made the stage feel like a vast, more hallowed woods.”

    “Outstanding production - high production value, acting and singing were strong. Really liked the "soft beginning" as the "narrator" gradually brought out items and people to set the stage. Especially fun to those of us who were observing carefully... Set was beautiful - swaying tall trees an especially delightful addition that really gave the feeling (visual and sounds!) of the earth shaking. Costumes were delightful. Actors appeared comfortable, confident, professional.“

  • Into the Woods Photos on Flickr

  • Music and Lyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM

    Book by JAMES LAPINE

    Originally Directed on Broadway by James Lapine

    Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick

    INTO THE WOODS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

and carry what lingers

Mainstage Theatre
April 28 - May 7, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Cassette tape with a label reading 'and carry what lingers, an original devised performance' against a black background.

After the three-year pandemic, what do we need to remember? What do we never want to forget? What do we want to leave behind? Discover a newly created performance by student writers, directors, actors, designers, and musicians.

  • The title comes from a quote.

    “When our lives are upended, either by an illness or a pandemic or some other kind of deep heartbreak or sense of loss …We want to feel like we can move on from them, but we can’t compartmentalize these experiences. … Instead, we have to learn how to move forward with them and to carry what lingers.”

    Suleika Jaouad from
    Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted.

    The piece will be devised in the winter quarter by a group of student writers, directors, actors, designers, choreographers, and musicians using the idea of a ‘mixtape’ as a structuring device. Other prompts and goads: Old technology, the music of Amos Lee and Olafur Arnalds, and work from last year’s Devised Theater Class.

  • “The whole thing. From the writing to the tech elements it was a beautifully executed show.”

    “I liked the script itself--very thought provoking and a good expression of the students' issues and reflections. I liked the lighting and overall design of the show.”

  • and carry what lingers Program

  • and carry what lingers Photos

Spring Dance Festival 2023

Student Spotlight
April 15 - 16, 2023
Saturday, 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Spring Dance Festival

Enjoy an impressive performance of original student choreography, celebrating Claire Long and Sarah Sporn's accomplishments and love for dance.

  • “It was a great show with excellent choreography!”

    “The dances that were performed were interesting and...well, enjoyable! The skill it took to perform those moves is impressive.”

    “Audio and lighting were fabulous. They helped to tell the stories of the dance pieces. What I loved the most was the choreography of both dance performances and how much passion and effort the women took to perform the pieces. They all did an amazing job and I am so proud of the 2 choreographers. They are 2 very talented dancers.”

  • Program for Spring Dance Festival 2023

  • Spring Dance Festival Photos on Flickr

Giants Have Us In Their Books

By: José Rivera

Mainstage Theatre
March 3 - 12, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Dark background with a silhouette of a flying horse with wings, surrounded by tiny stars or dust particles. Text overlay reads, "Giants have us in their books."

Uncover captivating ​tales about the mysterious human race.
We grow up with storybooks detailing the life of Giants and other mythical creatures, but what happens when we become the subject of the fable? Written as if they were told by Giants, the six short fables in Giants Have Us in Their Books harness the simplicity of fairytales as they explore the complex reality of the human experience through magical realism, metaphor, and poetry.

  • “The Fess space, projection effects, and sound effects supported the actors well in this play!”

    “I liked the director’s interpretation of the stories!”

    “Well done!”

  • Giants Have Us In Their Book Photos

  • Giants Have Us in Their Books program

  • Originally produced at the Magic Theater, San Francisco.

    GIANTS HAVE US IN THEIR BOOKS is produced by special arrangement with Broadway Play Publishing Inc, NYC www.broadwayplaypub.com

Images 2023

Mainstage Dance
February 2 - 5, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Group of dancers wearing masks performing on stage, with a large overlay text 'IMAGES 2023'

Marvel as intriguing movement, costumes, and lighting collide in this breathtaking showcase of our dancers’ overwhelming talent; displayed through diverse music and across genres- from jazz and contemporary to modern and ballet.

  • “Innovative dances. I loved the second piece with the chairs and the piece on oppression with Amazing Grace. I also really appreciated lighter pieces like the jazz one. All of the performances were wonderful!”

    “Highly talented dancers, fresh choreography, and supportive relationships among dancers. The lights, music, dancing, and hospitality were delightful <3”

    “Ticket purchase was easy, there was parking nearby, check in was quick, programs were ready, and very good performances.”

    “The dancers' talents and beautiful choreography wowed; great sound and staging. Pleasant ushers!”

  • Images 2023 Program

  • Images 2023 Photos on Flickr

The Void - Anima Collective ‘23

Student Spotlight
January 19 - 21, 2023
Thursday - Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Poster for a storytelling event titled "The Void," exploring spiritual and essential questions with watercolor illustrations of three different sandwiches, and details of the event including dates, times, location, creators, and faculty advisor.

Would you rather fight an ostrich or turn into a hotdog? Would you rather be an orientation leader or a priest? Would you rather lose your girlfriend or your mind? Are you human? Are you sure? Find out at The Void, a show that explores the inhumanity of humanity amongst improbably peculiar strangers. Hotdogs, flamethrowers, blue hair, tetherball. Confused? Just buy a ticket and show up. Discover humanity pushed to its weirdest.

  • Witness the culmination of a sixth-month creative and reflective process that reimagines and plays with performance conventions, integrating the spiritual journey of making art with self and communal expression. Anima Collective forms each year to devise a unique and engaging performance that speaks to our times. This year's cast is drawn from the departments of Theatre & Dance, Communication, Asian American Studies and Creative Writing, with Music Department students providing the sound scores.

  • “The performance allowed me to look at life from a perspective that I don't commonly see. The performance art was exceptionally performed in a comfortable setting that was enjoyable for myself and my daughter. “

    “I thought the story was great (thought provoking and laugh out loud funny in places), the acting was very good, the music, the lighting - all excellent. And it was a great crowd - very into the show.”

    “The actors were great, the plot was mind-bending, and the overall theme was very thought-provoking.”

  • The Void Program

  • The Void Photos on Flickr

Choreographers’ Gallery

Mainstage Dance
December 1-2, 2022
Thursday 8:00 p.m.
Friday, 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

A dancer on stage with a blue curtain backdrop, reaching upward while three other dancers support her, with an event title 'Choreographers' Gallery' and details about performances in December.

Catch the next big choreographer's work on the Mayer Stage! Expect a unique, dazzling evening of completely original movement from our choreography students.

  • “Enjoyed the collaboration on every piece. How wonderful for them to work on every aspect, and with sophisticated lighting.”

    “I loved the storylines that were in the dances and I loved how the lights were perfectly aligned with the choreography. The dancers did an amazing job showing emotions and they were so good!!!”

    “I love the creativity and passion of the choreographers and the dancers. It was amazing to watch, very moving and powerful.“

  • Choreographers' Gallery Program

  • Choreographers' Gallery 2023 Photos on Flickr

The Book of Will

Mainstage Play
November 4-13, 2022
Thursday-Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Louis B. Mayer Theatre

Book cover titled 'The Book of Will' by Lauren Gunderson, featuring a portrait of William Shakespeare and a stack of aged books.

By Lauren Gunderson

Beg, borrow, and band together to preserve William Shakespeare’s legacy! In this irreverent comedic play, experience the bittersweet complexity of grieving the loss of a beloved friend amidst the hilarity that ensues as the The King’s Men strive to compile the Bard’s scattered masterpieces and publish the words that shaped their lives.

  • “I really enjoyed the choice of play and the acting. I was moved to tears once or twice during the play. I loved how non-cynical it was. And I particularly loved Kennedy Dawson and William Webb as Rebecca and John Heminges. They both put on great performances and had me captivated.”

    “The show was great. The actors were awesome. I loved the costumes and the unique touch with the shoes. Really the costumes were fabulous! The actors really displayed their passion for Shakespeare.”

    “Excellent choice of play, good acting, clever staging and use of semi-authentic costumes”

    “The set was amazing, the humor was good, parts of the costumes were great, some of the actors were great, the Front of House experience (including the email reminders) was great and is very professional.”

  • The Book of Will Program

  • The Book of Will Photos on Flickr

Fall One Act Festival

Student Spotlight
October 22-23, 2022
Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Poster for Fall One Act Festival with three sections: 1) The Traveler by Marc Connelly, featuring a black and white train against a purple sky; 2) Myth by Alexis Standridge, with a background of green forest; 3) Poof! by Lynn Nottage, with a background of brick wall and a gray rock with glasses on top.

Embark on a journey across characters and genres through eclectic theatrical gems selected, directed, and performed by our talented students. Featuring “The Traveler” written by Marc Connelly and directed by Lucas Simone, “Myth” written by SCU alum Alexis Standridge and directed by Marc Didier, and  “Poof!” written by Lynn Nottage and directed by Sarah Arega Hutton.

  • “The plays were great! Interesting choices, and a good level of set design/lighting/sound (some but not too much).”

    “The actors were good and the plays were well-selected”

    “The plays and the acting were outstanding. Loved all three. And there was a nice sized audience both days - great audience involvement (laughing, cheering, clapping). Was a great shared experience. Hope the actors and directors and writer felt the excitement.”

  • Fall One Act Program

Fall Dance Festival

Student Spotlight
October 15-16, 2022
Saturday, 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Sunday 2:00 p.m.
Fess Parker Studio Theatre

Poster for Fall Dance Festival with an hourglass graphic and names Ashley Cook, Cindy Chen, and Emma Rutter.

Enjoy an impressive performance of original student choreography, celebrating our students’ talents and love for dance. Theatre Arts Dance Emphasis students Cindy Chen, Ashley Cook and Emma Rutter present their work for three performances October 15 & 16.

  • “I loved the intimate venue - I could see everything really well and the sound was great. Great to have the themes/titles of the performances projected on the back drop.“

    “The dancers were fabulous! Diverse choreography and lovely dancing.”

  • Fall Dance Festival Program

  • Fall Dance Festival Photos on Flickr